By Ghazali Ibrahim
Paris Saint-Germain and Morroco defender Achraf Hakimi is facing potential criminal trial after French prosecutors formally requested that he be tried for the alleged rape of a 24-year-old woman in 2023.
The Moroccan international, 26, has denied the accusation, asserting that the encounter was consensual and labeling the allegation as an attempt at blackmail.
The incident reportedly occurred on February 25, 2023, when the woman visited Hakimi’s residence in Boulogne-Billancourt, a suburb of Paris, after the two connected via Instagram. She initially refrained from filing a formal complaint but later provided messages that led to a formal investigation. Hakimi was placed under judicial supervision on March 3, 2023, and prohibited from contacting the alleged victim.
In December 2023, both parties participated in a confrontation before an investigating judge, reiterating their respective positions.
The Nanterre prosecutor’s office has now requested that the case proceed to criminal court, with a decision pending from the investigating magistrate. If convicted, Hakimi could face up to 15 years in prison.
Hakimi’s legal team has criticized the prosecution’s request, describing it as “incomprehensible,” and has indicated plans to appeal if the case advances to trial.
The alleged victim’s lawyer welcomed the development, emphasizing the importance of allowing the judicial process to proceed.
Paris Saint-Germain has publicly supported Hakimi throughout the investigation, citing the ongoing legal process.
Hakimi, who has been a key figure for both PSG and the Moroccan national team, remains on bail as the legal proceedings continue.
